I am rooting for this movie theater. In its glory days the front windows weren't smashed and the cardboard boxes weren't left in the front entrance with urine stains and needle caps. Even during the homeless days with the Capitol Hill and U District tweens with patchwork jackets and dogs mobbing around in packs this theatre was in good condition. I have over 20 years of memories coming here watching indie movies like Pirana, docuseries to Siff films. I also watched plenty of blockbuster films. My fondest memory is the smell of the popcorn that fills the front space. It is so distinct and the melted butter and grease on my fingers rubbed on my movie ticket is nostalgic. I love the indie vibe of the workers. It was a polite Seattle cool, depending on the era a little emo and punk, with some grunge. The attitude was very U District. I hope this theatre can raise the funds to fix itself up. It is one of my favorites and I hope it doesn't get boarded up. It still has so much life left. read more

I looked into other reviews prior to going to the Varsity Theatre but it seemed like people were either raving or hating on it. At this point it felt like it's mostly dependent on personal preference so I decided to go in and find out. I thought the place is decent. The biggest attraction is that tickets are probably the cheapest in the area. Regular ticket price is around $16 for Seattle but it's $10 at Varsity (as of December 2023). And you get a dollar off if you're a student. Also you don't even have to buy the student tickets in person because you could just order them online (other places like AMC downtown, you have to go in person). I made sure to bring my student ID in case if they want to check, but it was never checked onsite. I think it's a little more shabby than AMC and other more commercial theaters, but it does its job. The movie started on time and there were no issue throughout the movie. I wish they could just shut off the ads before the screen turns on at starting time because you're facing a blue screen that shows nothing while the ad is blasting. On the other hand, I liked that there aren't that many previews to watch through to get to the actual movie I came to see. The bathroom is two flights up the stairs from the ground floor. It's well kept and smells ok, but they probably have to check the toilet paper inventory more often. By the time I went in, there were no toilet paper left at all so I didn't forget to inform the staff that before leaving. The staff was polite and accepted my remarks in good spirit. read more

I wouldn't be a film critic (and I am) if I didn't spend at least part of my vacation checking out area movie theaters. While there was an AMC Theatre not far from my hotel, an older and more historic place like Varsity Theatre is much more to my liking. As a wheelchair user, first of all, I'll acknowledge that accessibility is not perfect here. From what I've read, Varsity started off life as a one-theatre operation in 1940 and was expanded to three screens in the 1980s. Around 2015, additional updates included going from 35mm to digital and adding digital surround sound. They also have 3D capabilities and reportedly offer 3D without the usual upcharge. They've also improved the concessions area. The main theatre is on the ground floor. There's an elevator, admittedly a somewhat suspect one, that takes you up to where they have the other two theatres. They offer free parking, a Seattle rarity, all weekend and after 6pm on weekdays. They have the traditional marquee (I love these!) and there's definitely a more traditional theatre vibe here. This is not the fanciest theatre you'll see and, yes, you'll probably get a higher quality viewing over at the AMC. Who cares? It's my understanding that this area was hit hard during the 2020 protests and there's definitely graffiti above the marquee that is not in most of the photos of the theatre. I have no idea if the inside was impacted, though my impression from checking out the other photos is that there was some impact. That said, what remains is quite the beauty. It's my understanding they screen a combination of wide-release and lesser known titles. During the week I was in Seattle for my goddaughter's wedding, they were screening three more widely known titles. They are, of course, following CDC protocols as is required. The theatre is comfortable, temperature is good, seating is fine, and there are some accessibility options even if they may not be what I'd consider fully accessible. Overall, if all you care about is the biggest and best this is probably not for you. However, if you're a true film lover and a lover of film history then a stop at Varsity on "The Avenue" in the University District should be considered an obligation. Varsity is owned by Bainbridge Island based Faraway Entertainment, a local operation with several screens in the area. I definitely give it a thumbs up and am glad I visited. read more

Varsity Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Terrible customer service. 9pm shift Friday night August 10th refused service to group of 10 kids.

Exactly what I want in a movie theater, great atmosphere, great experience, great popcorn

I purchased movie tickets on Fandango for a showing on Dec. 24, 2024. When we arrived, there was a sign on the door that an employee (only 1?) was out sick, so the theater was closed (OK, I can understand that). The sign also had an email address to contact for a refund (which I did later that evening). After not getting a response, I sent another email four days later, and still no response. I then called on 12/31 and talked to the person listed on the sign, who explained that he had been sick for a few days, and was catching up on things, and it would be a couple of days before he could process a refund (again, understandable). After not seeing a refund or being contacted with an update after another four days, I called again and spoke with another person who did didn't have the ability to issue a refund, but said he would pass on the info. It's now another two days with no response. Just tried to call again with no answer and no means of leaving a message. Having to resort to a bad review to see if I can get some customer service, since there doesn't appear to be any other means of getting a hold of someone. read more

We went during a monday holiday. There is just street parking, as far as I know, but we were able to find one across the street. It was 4:45pm showing, the entire theater only had 3 families total. We saw a kids cartoon movie, it was great! Seats were comfortable, temperature was good. Screen was good, sound was good. THere is elevator that goes up to the top floor, where there are two rooms for two different movies. It is a small theater, with very limited selection, however, it is at a convenient location, and it had a good range of selection, as in, one horror, one drama, one kids-related. And the kid movie we chose, not a lot of other places have it playing. Staff is helpful. The only thing is that the label outside the room did not match what is showing inside. Getting updated will definitely help decrease confusion. read more

Doesn't look like much walking past, but we popped in anyway for the Tuesday $6 movie ticket due to AMC being full. It's open seating so the earlier you come in, the better seats you can get. Also, there's slight incline so don't sit too far back if you're short like I am. Someone came in and sat in front of me so I had to move to see the screen. The chairs are normal without recliners, don't expect anything fancy. However, they don't check bags so feel free to bring drinks and snacks. Restroom is upstairs. read more

The repertory programming is great. The fact that they get so many theaters into one space here is impressive. Decent sound, image quality. Decent concessions. Parking's a hassle, but this place plays so many movies that don't show anywhere else that you pretty much have to come here anyway. read more

Varsity is super convenient, and it's pretty decently priced for students, too ($8 per ticket). It's actually a lot bigger on the inside than it looks, and the seats are quite comfortable. The concessions stand is where you buy the tickets, which threw me off at first, but it makes sense for a small operation. I never buy food at the movies, so I can't speak to that at all, but since their renovation the visuals and sound are pretty good quality. read more

If i could leave less than a one star i would. This is by far the worst experience ive ever had at any establishment ever. 1. The movie didnt start for an entire hour after said airing time due to technical difficulties where they then moved us to a second auditorium where the movie still didnt play for another 45 minutes. 2. They are so extremely short staffed and unorganized that it was hard and unhelpful to get any kind of refund or compensation. 3. The most disturbing part of it all is that i left this theater with bug bites all over the exposed parts of my neck. Im horrified at the lack of consideration and empathy from this company. DO NOT GO HERE AT ALL. read more

Varsity Theatre - BUG BITES FROM THIS MOVIE THEATER. - Cinema Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I can really do without the snarky college kid working the ticket counter who's sure he's the smartest guy on the block. And the place is getting a little old and dowdy, but it's one of the few repertory theatres in town. I'm more likely to wait for an obscure movie to show up on Netflix than to come here but every now and then it's worth the trip. I went to see The Chicago 10(good movie, check it out). The sound system is one of the better ones in town actually and the seats are relatively comfortable. The air conditioning was blasting on this cold March day which is odd. I prefer my rep house to be in an old theatre like the Neptune or the Egyptian but this place does okay in a pinch. read more

This place isn't a 4-star location in terms of amenities and ambience... there are better places to go on a date that won't leave you worried that a cockroach is running over your foot in the middle of a movie.... but the selection of films is excellent! read more

A vintage theater with a LOT of character. While old, it's still well maintained and also remains active by hosting the occasional pre-screening. For a movie night out, I'd almost prefer going here over the huge complexes that just herd people in and out. read more

My OfferUp 30in. Samsung TV has a better sound system than this theater. Anyway Kong v Godzilla was coo.

This is a nice little place. They have a nice variety of independent films and bigger movies. Never had an issue with the customer service, though when I go the theatre is generally empty or close to it! Popcorn is hit or miss. If you're lucky enough to come in when it's fresh, dont skip it! The seats are ragged but that's sort of the charm :) read more

Okay with the good: Awesome pricing. $8 for student tickets. No hassle given to have to show ID. Even for 3D tickets it was still $8 bucks where most places will try and rip you off. This place kept the prices right. Even at full price it's only $10 bucks compared to the competition. The snacks and combo deals are very affordable too. Igor popcorn and after they buttered it for me they showed me the flavor stand where I could shake flavors (white cheddar, ranch, etc) to my hearts content AT NO EXTRA COST. Other theaters will make you buy a small plastic bottle that you ever use again, again they choose not to rip you off here. The staff was super friendly and it wasn't overcrowded even on an opening night (The newest Planet of the Apes movie). The negative: it's an old theater, a little run down but for the bargain I got to be able to treat and take out the whole gang to a movie it's worth it! The seats are not the updated seats, just standard seating (non recliner type) but still comfortable. I thought it was great and I left happy to have watched a movie with the family without breaking the bank. DEFINITELY THUMBS UP! read more

$7.00 Tuesday Special! I can't believe I'm saying that's cheap, but compare that to any of the big chain theaters and it is very inexpensive. Their movies are independent, and they're often the only theater (in all of Seattle) showing whatever is playing there. That is an accomplishment. Just saw Let the Right One In there tonight. Excellent movie, check it out while it's still playing. Questions answered: Do vampires like candy? (Negative) Do cats like vampires? (Negative) Are there people in Seattle so lazy they take an elevator as opposed to walking down a flight of stairs? (Positive) By the way, I just read that Let the Right One In is getting remade by Hollywood. I bet you $25,000,000 it's going to be a flaming pile of monkey dung. Anybody care to take me up on that? The way I see it, I only need one person to agree and I'm set for life. Easiest $25,000,000 I ever made. Minus one star because their seats are old and not so good if you're tall. Other than that, it flat out rocks. read more

In a long overdue date with the Burck's, we ended up here yesterday for the kick-off of Superhero Schwarma Sunday with a viewing (again) of the Avengers. I wouldn't rate this as a destination theater, per se, though it's walking proximity to restaurants and such makes it worthy of a mention for that and it suited our purposes in that regard well. The toughest part is the sound quality. It needs an upgrade, especially for louder-action movies. Cute, tiny lobby, comfy seats, decent seating layout, adequate screen all combine for an enjoyable theater experience. Not the greatest, but I've been to much worse. First showing that day was only $8, so that was a nice plus to catch for the beginning of our adventure time. read more

Certainly not the most plush theater in the city, but they do have all the amenities of larger theaters...Extra greasy popcorn. The tiniest napkins that a manufacturer could produce. Giant sodas. Sticky floors. Air conditioning even in the dead of winter. So when they only charge $7 on Tuesday nights, the Varsity becomes a winner in my book. They're always showing something a little different--lots of documentaries, foreign flicks, or independent films. A lot of times the choices aren't extra appealing, but every once in a while you can catch a gem. read more

This theatre isn't bad at all! But as one reviewer mentioned, I wish a company would like to buy this place and make it to be a decent theatre. I went to watch The Greatest Showman with my bf and we enjoyed our experience. This place has affordable prices especially for UW students. If you mention that you're a UW student, you can get a ticket for $8. However (pls take notes peeps) they do check your id. It's not too strict, but yes, they did check if you have a husky card or not. The popcorn was affordable too. We shared a medium popcorn, which costs 6.50, and the portion was actually big enough. I would say the only thing that is a bit pricy here is just the bottled water (around 3?) but whatever, right? Now about the theatre itself, I was expecting an old theatre with not so comfortable seats. The old part was somehow true, but the seats were comfortable enough for us to sit down without getting a back pain. The only bummer was there was no cup holder, so you have to hold your popcorn and drinks or else, it will spill everywhere. Bonus points? The theatre was 3/4 empty so you can seat wherever you want. My suggestion: I hope they will remodel the interior of the theatre, so that more people can enjoy this place. Also, please repair some of the seats (there were missing/broken seats.) Other than that, it was an enjoyable experience. Maybe I'll come back :) read more

Came here alone to watch "The Lego Movie" (Don't judge me) and enjoyed this theater very much. Great seats, not too big, not too small and it was perfect for some alone time as there was only about 6 people inside. read more

The theatre has been operating since the 1940's so you can't expect all the bells and whistles of a modern day theatre. But, that is what makes a film at the Varsity such an experience. It shows such an array of movies- from current releases to foreign movies that you would never get the chance to see anywhere else. The movie I went to go see had a good picture and sound And more importantly I got to see a movie and eat a tub of popcorn without having to mortgage a home. So, grab your popcorn and become a part of Seattle history. read more

Parking when going to see a movie at the Varsity stinks, if you're lucky you might find a spot 3 or 4 blocks away otherwise suck it up and pay in one of the pay lots near by. Once you find your spot, remember where you parked than head to the movies. There are 3 screens here, I prefer watching a movie on the first floor theater, the seating is better situation for foreign films. When ever I see a foreign film upstairs I always end up sitting behind a giant with good posture and miss half the movie because I have a head and shoulder blocking my view and I can't read what's being said. If I'm going to see a foreign film I think twice about coming to the Varsity but it's a great place to go and see independent films, eclectic Hollywood favorites and documentaries. read more

So, I love the fact that it's still here but I'd love it even more if someone would buy the place and make it into a decent space to see a show. It's a cool old throwback theater with small screens, creaky, uncomfortable seats and a little snack bar. But there's no reason why it couldn't be better if it was given some love. Especially with the new light rail station coming in a few years. Make this the place to go for a movie in the U District! read more

The Varsity sits on Universtiy ave up in the U-district. Due to its location there will be some chicanery that has to be endured sometime when waiting in line to see a movie here. That being said, this place usually will play the limited run/foreign/documentary independent stuff so I will give them kudos for that. Its a bit beat up and rundown on the inside. Like many of the landmark theatres, the popcorn here is tasty and I always get a small baggy. Being on the Ave, there are plenty of mediocre to decent restaurants that fill up in before seeing a film here. The seats are not too bad, not much rocking and its sloped style arrangement so watch out for the tall guy infront of you. Your theatre to see most of the independent stuff in the U-District. read more

Seattle is the Land-o-Plenty for Landmark Theatres and the Varsity is the one most likely to be playing something I want to see at any given time. This is a place to be loved for it's content, not it's cover. It's one ugly mo-fo if you only take it at face value. The theatre is run down: old carpet, broken seats, dingy lighting and old plumbing. But personality it has in spades! That old carpet has been tread upon by cinephiles for six decades and the worn wall coverings have been eavesdropping on clever dialogue and cineaste conversation for just as long. The person you sit next to in this theatre is passionate about great stories and will laugh, cry, or chortle as together you watch a world unfold. And sometimes that world is seriously f'd up! "Let the Right One In", for example, takes a new twist on a classic 'Love/Coming of Age' story. And Rare Exports was about Santa as you've never seen him before. Don't pass up the chance to see a movie at the Varsity just because it isn't pretty. Give it a little time, watch the scene play out, and add to the beauty it offers on the inside. read more

This place is so old and classic. You know what to expect the minute you walk by the ticket office. It's on the Ave.. for goodness sakes! Panhandlers, traff c problems, lots of buses, lots of foreign students.. not that I am not foreign to some... ... lots of fast food places. It has interesting cinematic runs, lat enight movies.. and a constantly changing very young staff. It is a classic. Many a Univ student has spent many an hour here watching movies, going to first dates here and eating across the street. You will find a gold mine of not really current, bu tinteresting and thought -provoking movies. ok an dexpensive cheap movie popcorn. read more

Saw "Mountain Patrol", Seattle International Film Festival movie showing after the festival. I really appreciate theatres that don't play the standard hollywood box office "hit" or "miss". These art house movies have loyal fans and it's really awesome to be able to know that Seattle shows its diversity for all kinds of tastes. Tickets are priced about the same as top hollywood shows, which doesn't add or subtract from the experience much. Lobby has free filtered (I think) water and they didn't seem to mind us bringing in our coffees even though there was a sign that said not to do that. read more

Came here once to watch Argo on a Sunday afternoon - parking is street only and atrocious but I found a spot after circling the blocks. I bought my ticket and the guy who sold it to me pointed out a disclaimer saying the end of the movie was a bit funky - the sound was weird or something but he said I could totally still hear what was happening. I was cool with that and happy that the theater was being upfront with that rather than ignoring it. It would have been nice to get a small discount but hey, I'm not judging. I didn't get snacks but they looked pretty pricey and not sure how fresh the popcorn was. To get to my theater I had to hike up some creaky stairs - basically if you ever needed to film a movie based in a haunted movie theater, this one is a pretty good fit. It was pretty creaky but I guess some would call it "Charming" Movie screen/quality was decent minus the ending that they had warned us about. Don't think I would go back though because the spot really creeped me out.. read more

I really really like the Varsity, so it pains to me to award it only 3 stars. I wanted to give 4, but...well, let me explain. The Varsity is on the smaller side, with only 4 theatres, but all 4 screens are usually playing something interesting, including recent movies in their second run, and special interest films that don't get much play in the big chains. Foreign, documentary, etc. You'll have to do without big chain luxuries, like stadium seating and big, cushy chairs, though. Seating and creature comforts are about what you'd expect from an older, smaller theatre. The snack bar is maybe sliiiiiightly cheaper than a big chain theatre, and carries a few unusual items, like Izze sparkling fruit juice, so kudos there. Being in the U district, parking can be quite tricky. There's no street parking to speak of, and no dedicated lot, so your best bet is public transit, otherwise, you're taking your chances. So, in short...it's the little theatre that could. They play some great films, so it's worth putting up with an average-at-best atmosphere. read more

First time at the Varsity Theater, to see the documentary, Senna. They seem to have a good mix of main stream films, indie films, foreign films and documentaries. Yes, the theater is old and shows it's age a bit but I felt quite comfortable with the surroundings. It didn't seem much different than other arthouse theaters I've been to over the years. The bathroom was clean, always a plus in my book! The main concern I had after reading other reviews on Yelp was that the seating would be uncomfortable. I have a bad back so usually have more discomfort than most people do when sitting for two hours in a theater chair. These chairs were not that bad. They are older and could have been a little wider, my big 6' tall hubby felt a bit stuffed into his seat but I had no back problems from the chairs at all. We were in the main (larger) auditorium on on the ground floor, so I can't attest for the seating in the two smaller theaters upstairs. As far as parking is concerned, we were there for a Saturday afternoon show and had no problem finding parking, although it was paid parking. We did drive around some, hoping to find some free parking on the street but that's a little harder to come by around that immediate area. So we opted to fork out $9 (for three hours) to park a short block and half away from the theater in an off street lot. FWIW, if you're looking for a place to eat and aren't familiar with the U district (we aren't either) then check out the Yelp reviews on The Ugly Mug, which is about two blocks away. I was concerned about finding a good place to eat, since this is the university district and students often equate good food with cheap food. This place was way better than student food. I'd be thrilled to have it where we live. read more

Very bad experience. The staff works there are Erogant as hell. Movie quality is bad. No. Not recommended. I'm not gonna waste my money anymore. read more

Went in to see Joker. Staff was fine but the theater was way too dark to see where to sit before the movie started and two "bros" TALKING during the entire movie in an 2/3 full theater. Asked the staff to deal with them and they never did even after another guy next to them asked too. Screen was also shifted so it was tilted throughout the movie. read more

Any theater that's not a megaplex starts with four stars in my mind. I dislike most 'blockbusters' because explosions, special effects, car chases, or fight scenes don't do anything for me. I like a good drama (though not too "sappy") or a good documentary. Varsity shows primarily movies that fall under the umbrella of 'movies Steve will like' and I love them for it. Yes, the people that work there aren't going to put their lips on your derriere; they are Seattle youth-aloof and with a perceived attitude. Yes, it's not as spiffy as a megaplex. It is cozy, the popcorn does taste like real and not frankenfood, and it's in a location that's easy to do dinner and a movie within walking distance. Varsity, you're not JV to me! read more

I just saw Marley (Bob Marley documentary) and enjoyed my time at this theatre. I showed up a few minutes late but was still able to get my popcorn (with do it yourself cheesy seasoning) and find a good seat. The main theatre is pretty big and the sound was just fine. The picture got blurry for a minute or two but someone got up and told the projectionist and it got fixed. It is nice to be able to see alternative films that I am not able to find in South King County. read more

The people here are super nice . Asked Julia about a promo poster, she took down my name, really hope it'll be mine. P.S. They are truly Awesome to be the ONLY theater in Seattle to be showing Soaked In Bleach. Rest in Peace Kurt, we all love and miss you. P.S.S. Totally SHOCKED & DISGUSTED that the place isn't packed to pay homage to the Great One. read more

Varsity Theatre - Staring off into the darkness with all the other hopeful, but lost souls. - Cinema Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I really enjoyed my experience at Varsity Theatre. I think overall I tend to enjoy independent films more than mainstream film. Although the location is good for me, I think that I would drive out of my way to come here. There is something charming about this theater. It is very cute inside. It is not very big, so you may have to go up the somewhat dizzying stairwell to catch your flick or run to the restroom. I thought it was pretty well maintained as well. Someone mentioned it having a haunted house feel, and I'm thinking maybe a little more like a dark castle. It seemed kind of cozy and embracing. Tickets and concessions are typical of big theater prices. Going on less busy nights will help with parking. read more

decadent and dive-y but its your standard oldest theatre in seattle. Its cool on the inside been there once. You can tell it use to be nice. As vintage theatres go I'd have to go with Cinerama read more

They play excellent films! Really, top notch programming. It's a great place to see great documentaries, independent films and old favorites. If it was just based on programming I would probably give it 4 stars. I have no issues with the staff seeing as I generally don't interact with them much outside of buying the ticket and walking by them on the way to the theater. Always been pleasant enough for me. What I do take issue with is the size of the screens. I may catch some flak for saying this but they are just too dang BIG for the room. They only have four small rooms and they packed screens too large so that if I don't sit in the back row I feel nauseous and have to hunch down and strain to even see the entire screen. I feel like I would have a more enjoyable experience watching from the doorway. Seriously not good. But as I said, they play excellent films so you should check it out. read more